Neutrophil Count in Serum (Absolute Neutrophil Count, ANC)
This test measures the number of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, in your blood serum. Neutrophils help fight infections by attacking bacteria and other invaders.
["Neutrophils are key defenders against bacterial infections; low or high levels may signal health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 17350-0
- Short code
- Neutrophil IgM Ser-aCnc
- Synonyms
- Neutrophil IgM Ser-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82784
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for infections, blood disorders, or immune system issues. It’s often used when you have symptoms like fever, fatigue, or unexplained bruising. Neutrophils can also rise or drop in response to certain medications or conditions like cancer.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll likely have a simple blood draw from a vein in your arm. The test is quick and usually painless. If you’re on blood-thinning medication, let your provider know.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to your baseline or general reference ranges for healthy adults. Very high or very low neutrophil counts may indicate infections, immune disorders, or other health problems. Your provider will discuss findings in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Common Conditions Linked to Neutrophil Counts
Low neutrophil counts (neutropenia) can make you more prone to infections, especially from bacteria. High neutrophil counts may signal acute infections, inflammation, or stress responses. Chronic conditions like leukemia or autoimmune disorders can also affect neutrophil levels.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Neutrophils are the body’s first responders to bacterial infections. Their count helps doctors diagnose or monitor conditions like sepsis, chronic infections, or blood cancers. Abnormal levels may also signal underlying immune dysfunction or reactions to treatments.
Short name
Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC)
Frequently asked questions
What causes a low neutrophil count?
What causes a high neutrophil count?
Can diet affect neutrophil counts?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy